My Beloved Rocket- 9/9/1993-10/21/2012

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Rocket & his Mom

Rocket & his Mom

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Dear LL Family,

Opening one last condo.....

Just letting you all know that my beloved Rocket left me today at 12:26 MT

I want to thank you all for your support, also want to thank LLEF and DCIN for being there for us when we needed you.

He left me truly heart broken.......I'm gutted....no other way to describe it....

forgive me if i have not much to say....I wrote this letter for him

My Beloved Cherished Handsome Rocket,
I’m writing you this letter the day before you leave me forever. As I sit here typing this letter I’m looking at you while you sleep and I question if the decision is the right one or if it is too soon. But a long time ago I made you a promise when we embarked in the new challenges life was throwing at you. Even though it breaks my heart into pieces, I kept my promise to you today. The decision has been made and they will come tomorrow.
Today we get to spend time as always….but it will be the last time I get to smother you in hugs and kisses….even though you are still giving me attitude, are eating ok on your own and using the litter box, I rather have that memory of you my feisty-stubborn-loving-cuddling boy. For I will never forgive myself if I were to wait until you no longer knew it was me holding you and loving you.
Life is a journey and our lives have had an incredible blessed one. You were truly a gift and I feel honoured to have loved you and cared for you. I thank you for always loving me back even though the last few years were challenging for you. I know you forgive me for messing up most of the time. In the 19+ years of our journey together, you have taught me lessons I never expected could be taught by a kitty….was I ever wrong to think otherwise.
I know you know I did the very best I could offer and I so wish I could have done more. Equally the same you gave it your all and you will always be my hero….for never giving up, for always trying your best in spite of it all.
We were such a team. The incredible DUO….but this duo has come to a T-road. And here is where our journey together ends. You must go one way without me and I will go the other way without you. We must part ways. And it’s ok. For I know that the road you are going to now travel will eventually lead you back to me again. I will travel my road knowing that I too will get to see you again. My heart is now broken and as I have always told you it is ok for I choose to give you a piece of that broken heart and I want you to take care of it for when we meet again I will ask for that piece of my heart back for it will be then that my heart will be whole again.
I don’t wish to say good-bye to you my beloved Rocket….I must say “see you shortly” for even if it is years until I see you again, I know with certainty that I will get to hold you in my arms again.
Sadly, you are not the gift that is meant to be kept forever….I must give you back but know that my love for you will never change. I loved you for 19+ years….I will continue to love you even if you are not here with me in body.
Thank you for loving me, thank you for being there for me, thank you for being you….my handsome Rocket…..I was blessed to have had your love….I had always thank you for allowing me into your life…..and today is no different….Thank you for spending your life with me….for being you!
The time has come…….you have now left me….I’m gutted and numb….but your dignity was intact…..I made you that promise……
KNOW THAT I WILL FOREVER LOVE YOU AND THAT I WILL FOREVER MISS YOU….MY HEART IS NOW BROKEN AND IT WON’T BE COMPLETE UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN


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I took this yesterday while spending quality time with my boy


Please light a candle for my boy to find his way to the bridge
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Oh Claudia. There are no words. :YMHUG: :YMHUG: :YMHUG:

My heart is sad for you and your family. This was not an easy decision.

Karen
 
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(((((Claudia))))))
I cry with you. I'm sorry that this day has come and I lift you up in prayer to help bear your broken heart.
Rocket knows you loved him dearly and you always will.
You will see him and hold him again.
 
(((((Claudia))))) we are all weeping with you.....but you know you gave him the greatest gift his ENTIRE life...your love and you did not fail him at the end. You kept your promise. We all love you...we love Rocket. He is with you always.

My favorite poem by ee cummings for you:

I carry your heart with me (I carry it in my heart)
I am never without it (anywhere I go you go, my dear:
And whatever is done by only me is your doing, my darling)
I fear no fate (for you are my fate, my sweet)
I want no world (for beautiful you are my world, my true)
And it’s you are whatever a moon has always meant
And whatever a sun will always sing is you

Here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that’s keeping the stars apart

I carry your heart (I carry it in my heart)

We light a candle to guide him on his way. Fly free, sweet Rocket. You are so very loved and will be missed by us all.
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I lit Butthead's candle for Rocket just a few moments ago

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Love to you always. It was an honor and privilege to know Rocket, and you are one of the strongest and bravest people I have ever known.

love,
MJ
and Donovan's and Butthead's spirits, waiting for precious Rocket at the Bridge

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(((((Claudia))))) I am so, so sorry that you had to say goodbye to Rocket. He is now free of pain and waiting for you on the other side. I'm sure all of our GA's gave him a huge welcome.

Fly free, sweet Rocket. wings_cat
 
Oh Claudia! Your love for Rocket was always so evident and I know he felt it as well. We are wrapping you up in a big hug and crying with you my dear friend. Fly free little one and land softly. ((((Hugs))))
 
(((Claudia)))

My heart is broken for you. What a beautiful tribute to your special boy. He was a legend here in Lantus Land, and will never be forgotten. You are an inspiration for the care you gave him. He lived a happy life, and he knew he was loved every single day.

My prayers go out to you and your husband in your time of loss.

Fly free, (((Rocket))). You will be missed.


I AM NOT THERE

Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn's rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there, I did not die.
 
Claudia- big hugs to you. You are an inspiration to others in your love for Rocket. I read your posts and cry with you. Sending you comfort and peace. You will see Rocket again....

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(((Claudia and Darren)))
I know how heartbreaking it was for you to make this final decision, but as you said, you wouldn't have wanted to wait any longer when your precious boy would not have known you. You are the most loving mamabean there ever was and the love you and Rocket had for each other is a bond that will never be broken. You will see your Rocket one day because what would heaven be without our sweet kitties?

Your letter is beautiful and your words show how much you loved your boy. To live over 19 years is a true testament to the love and care you gave Rocket.

We love you and may God's love surround you and comfort you.
 
(((((CLAUDIA)))))) There are no words to express how I feel reading this.....My heart fell to my knees!
I am devastated myself & devastated for you....Claudia & Rocket:
This was the union of pure unselfish Love & giving, spurring each other in the face of sickness, bad times, hard times, sadness, and disabilities. A Love between you two was amazing, deep & pure, and that you showed him today...
You & Rocket were our Heroes, as were Linda & Bear Man...Only a few have I known, many I have seen here.. Fought so hard for your furbabies..As I do now too.
But Rocket was so special, such a fighter, with grace & strength, just like his Love..
And you Claudia did the Bravest, Kindest thing for him, You let him go....
If I could wrap my arms around you & try to comfort you now, they couldnt be Long enough for what you are feeling...Praying that you will find Peace for you & your family...Love you Claudia--I will be in touch soon.
So so sorry dear friend.. wings_cat rb_icon Love never dies Claudia, But Grief is the price we pay for LOVE.
But he gave you so much. You were Blessed.
 
(((Claudia))) I am so sorry to hear of Rocket's passing. Please dear Lord, protect him and hold him in Your loving arms. He has been a treasure to his mom and will brighten the bridge with his beauty.

Pattie
 
(((((Claudia))))) We are so very sorry knowing how difficult this day is for you. Thinking of you as you grieve but also celebrating Rocket's wonderful life with you. Every kitty should be so lucky.
Liz, Anne, Zener and Tillie
 
I am so sorry Claudia. Rocket was a brave kitty and had such a loving and devoted mommy.
It hurts so much when we love so deeply but we wouldn't have it any other way.

What a glorious life Rocket had with you!

Rest easy our handsome Rocket, your spirit flies free, lifted by the love of so many who grieve with your mommy today. ♥
 
(((Claudia))) Your letter to Rocket is so beautiful and written from the heart. I'm so sorry and sad for you. I love the picture of Rocket. Lots of hugs and prayers for you.
 
(((((Claudia))))) ((((((Rocket)))))

I'm so sad to hear about sweet, sweet Rocket.

You have been the BEST bean for your dear boy and had to make such a difficult and heart-wrenching decision. And you did it out of love and pure devotion.

May you feel the arms of our family here as they wrap around you and hold you tightly. Sharing your tears. And memories.

I am lighting a candle now for Rocket.

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Fly free dear Rocket
Land softly.

You will be missed.
 
Rocket’s Path
©2012 by Carol Notermann

I could hear you saying “Rocket”, in your very gentle way.
You told me that it was all right, I didn’t have to stay.
I was getting very tired, and the pain was leaving too
I closed my eyes a second, and a field came into view.

I still could hear you talking, but you seemed quite far away
Though I longed to be beside you, I just couldn’t seem to stay
For one moment I was with you, and the next I’m running free
I turned my head and there were others, running next to me.

We ran together through the field, and birdies filled the sky.
We chased and played together, then I turned and wondered why?
Why were you not behind us? I wondered where you went.
Then someone was beside us, and He had a lovely scent.

He petted me and told me that I simply had to wait.
That before I‘d time to miss you, you’d be coming through the gate.
He said that very loyal pets, were granted special space
To wait for those who loved them, to see again their face.

So Mom, know I am waiting with all my friends, and many more
For the day that I can see again the face that I adore.
It’s really such a lovely place, there’s no sickness and no pain.
I’ll run to you and jump to you, when I see you once again.

Thank you for setting me free.

Rocket

9/9/1993-10/21/2012 Rest, and remember, We love you! FDMB
 
(((((Claudia)))))
There are truly no words that are adequate. By each others' side, you and Rocket fought the good fight. Perhaps, even more importantly, you recognized the inherent wisdom that a cat possesses and you listened to Rocket. He let you know when it was time to let him go. It is the remaining gift you had left to give him.

Your tribute was eloquent. Like you, I believe that it is not a final goodbye but an "until we meet again." He is not gone; you hold a piece of him in your heart just as he has a piece of your heart. He will be waiting to meet you at the Bridge.
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This is a fable that a member here once shared with me. It is a bittersweet tale of how and why we choose the inevitable tears that accompany our decision to be a caregiver of those whiskered faces we love so much. I hope it eases the ache in your heart.

Fly free Rocket and land softly. There are many who we love dearly who will be at the Bridge to greet you and keep you safe.
 
(((Claudia)))
You know how I feel. I struggle daily with two seniors with multiple health issues. While at times uplifting, for the most part it is heartbreaking and so much time is spent worrying and wondering how to fix it and what else can I do? And When we are successful, even for a while, and another year goes by, we forget that we will eventually have to deal with it again (at least I do) and that we are not dealing with 'human years' although GOD, I wish we were :(

Claudia, you have been an inspiration: you have shown strength when I'm sure you felt like crying your eyes out; you have been the epitome of what unselfish love looks like....with both Rocket and Comet. You have left no stone unturned in caring for Rocket. My last vet said to me when it was time to say goodbye to my last cat Chance, "Chance has always trusted you to make the right decisions for him and you always have. That is how animals know they are loved". I know he believes this. And if this is true, true there was never and never will be a kitty more loved than Rocket is. You were lucky to have each other and it WILL be a great reunion when you meet again and your heart again becomes whole.

((((Claudia)))) my heart , love and tears are with you. I hope that you will find peace in all of the beautiful memories that you have made as well as the ones that you have in your heart.

Love,
Caryl (Alex & Jackson too)
 
I had gone hiking in the woods today, and for whatever reason I knew I needed to check the Board. There it was: your final farewell to Rocket. I sat there on an old log in the silence of those old woods and cried a thousand tears for you, and especially for Rocket. There simply are not adequate words... Your and Rocket's journey has inspired so many of us. The journey has been along one, often times a difficult one but through it all shined an incredible bond, and a deep sense of devotion you both had for one another. I applaud your decision to let him go with his dignity, when he was still Rocket. A thousand hugs for you. He will always be with you in your heart, your minds eye. Your letter to Rocket was beautiful. I shall remember it always. I am forever sorry....

Fly free sweet Rocket. You will be sorely missed, never ever forgotten.
 

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Heartfelt condolences on the loss of your beloved Rocket. We're never prepared for this no matter how much it's expected. You gave your boy such special love and care and I can't help but feel he knew this. Knew and felt your love for him. I'm sure he still does.

I know nothing said can ease your pain right now.

But, please know, you and your precious boy are in my thoughts and prayers.

Shai
 
(((Claudia)))) My heartfelt condolences on losing your lovely boy. I am so sorry, but you will see him again and he will be happy to see you!!

Fly free sweet Rocket!! wings_cat
 
Claudia, I send you many hugs and while still shedding tears for Dude, now combine tears for Rocket with them. He fought a good fight and received and gave so much love.

We know it's coming - and we think we're prepared for it - but there is no way we can know the extent of the loneliness without these furry companions. But what a legacy they leave us - love, laughter and tears - but most of all the love.

That last condo - that last SS entry - that last shot - the remaining furry companion looking for them - so many lasts -

You gave Rocket such loving care. I can only hope that Dude met him and they are chasing each other - free of pain - and young again.

Meanwhile, we all mourn.

Hugs to you.

Emmy & Dude (in spirit) and Mittsi too
 
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Claudia,
There are no words I can type that will tell you how sorry i am. You, Darren, Rocket and Comet share a most special love; enjoyed by yourselves and admired by all who come in contact with you.

May you always feel Rockets paws as he walks softly across your heart, letting you know that he is right there with you.

with love from mary
 
Claudia, I'm so very very sorry that you had to lose Rocket. We all know how much you love him and he you. It's a tragedy that their lives are so short. What a sweet beautiful boy he was. I love that photo you took of him getting ready to take a nap with his cuddly. What a nice way to remember how happy and comfy he was and how wonderful he looked at such an old age.

Take care of yourself, Claudia. My deepest sympathy,
Hugs,
Melanie & Racci
 
we all loved rocket, too. so proud and honored that you chose to share his life with us. he was so beautiful and brave, like all our dear dear furry friends.
fly free, soar high, land softly rocket. watch over claudia when you can.
((((((((((Claudia))))))))))
 
Tears are streaming down my face. It is the most difficult decision we have to make - but the most selfless one....
Feeling your pain....
Debie & Jezebel
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((((((((Claudia))))))) I'm so deeply sorry . Your letter to Rocket is so beautiful, it was hard to read through my tears. I have always loved looking at Rockets pictures and I'm sure I will visit them from time to time. He'll never be forgotten, many tears are flowing today.

So so sorry.

Fly Free Beautiful Rocket Man
 
((((Claudia)))) You made a very difficult decision out of your love for Rocket. You didn’t have time to “second guess”. Perhaps he wanted it that way. He let you know when it was time. He stayed as long as he could and he passed where he would have wanted to. You gave him a wonderful gift and a wonderful life. You and Rocket will always be remembered as LL's Dynamic Duo.

Beyond the Rainbow

As much as I loved the life we had and all the times we played,
I was so very tired and knew my time on earth would fade.
I saw a wonderous image then of a place that's trouble-free
Where all of us can meet again to spend eternity.
I saw the most beautiful Rainbow, and on the other side
Were meadows rich and beautiful-lush, green and wide!
And running through the meadows as far as the eye could see
Were animals of every sort as healthy as could be!

My own tired, failing body was fresh and healed and new
And I wanted to go run with them, but I had something left to do.

I needed to reach out to you, to tell you I'm alright
That this place is truly wonderful, then a bright Glow pierced the night.
'Twas the Glow of many Candles shining bright and strong and bold
And I knew then that it held your love in its brilliant shades of gold.

For although we may not be together in the way we used to be,
We are still connected by a cord no eye can see.
So whenever you need to find me, we're never far apart
If you look beyond the Rainbow and listen with your heart.

wings_cat Fly free brave Rocket, land softly on your beautiful new wings. You will be missed.
 
Dear Claudia.....it is with heavy heart and tears that I send hugs to you at this sad time.
I am so sorry for your loss of your dear boy. You and he shared an amazing life and love....
Nineteen years filled with memories that will comfort you I hope.
You have given him the final gift ~ which was the hardest one of all for you to tive him...but you did.
That was a beautiful letter. Thank you for sharing it with us here.

Fly Free Dear Rocket...until we meet again.... wings_cat
 
I'm so very sorry....Rocket is a special spirit, and you're a special bean. He will be with you forever, and you will both always be an inspiration to everyone in LantusLand.

Many prayers for you....
 
((Claudia)) words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss! My heart breaks for you. My Rocket fly free & have no more pain enjoying his days in the sun. May God bless you & help you deal with your loss. Take care
 
(((Claudia)))

My tears are flowing for you and Rocket. Thank you for sharing your heartwarming letter to Rocket with us. I have so much respect for you in regards to all that you did for your beloved Rocket and most of all for keeping your promise to him.

I'm enclosing one of my favourite quotes in the hopes that it will bring you some comfort.

Those truly linked don't need correspondence. When they meet again after many years apart, Their friendship is as true as ever.
Written by Chinese Philosopher Deng Ming-Dao

Lighting a candle for your sweet Rocket tonight.

Love, Tamara & Ella
 
((( Claudia )))

Rocket has left his paw prints on your heart, as well as those of us that have grown to know and love him through you. Hugs and scritches to you, Darren, and Comet, in this difficult time of loss and of memories that make you smile and cry in the same breath.
 
Dear (((Claudia))).....I'm so very sorry for the pain you are suffering now. You've taken on Rocket's. There is no greater love.
My heart is breaking for you.
 
Dear (((Claudia))).....I'm so very sorry for the pain you are suffering now. You've taken on Rocket's. There is no greater love.
My heart is breaking for you.
 
Dear (((Claudia))).....I'm so very sorry for the pain you are suffering now. You've taken on Rocket's. There is no greater love.
My heart is breaking for you.
 
I have no words to express how sorry I am for your loss .. Please just know my heart breaks for you .. Fly Free and land softly rocket ..
 
Dear Claudia,

A new star shines brightly in the heavens tonight. Rocket is at peace, holding you in his heart as you are holding him in yours. How lucky you were to be able to have so many happy years together. And during the most difficult times you were always there for each other. I read your beautiful tribute to your boy with tears in my eyes, but joy in my heart for the deep love you shared. May your love for Rocket and the knowledge that you gave him the best gift of all comfort you until you meet again.

Thank you for sharing your brave and handsome Rocket with all of us. His last photograph is so very touching. You can see his love for you in his expressive eyes. We have lit Stu's candle tonight to help light Rocket's way to the Rainbow Bridge, where he will find many of his friends waiting to welcome him. Fly free, sweet Rocket, on your beautiful new wings, land softly, and never forget how much you are loved.

(((((Claudia, Darren, and Comet)))))

Please accept our deepest sympathy,

Ella & Edward, Rusty, and Stu (GA)
 
(((Claudia))) (((Rocket))) We here at FDMB are all better people for knowing both of you. You two have shown how well and enduring a powerful and dedicated duo can be. Run free Rocket you have earned it and our crossed over pets will greet you and show you the ropes. I can only hope I have half the strength your mama, Claudia, has shown us over the last few years.

(((cries)))
-Sarah, Velcro and Buddy Kitty
 
oh Claudia, I am so very sorry. You were so dedicated to your boy, such love. what a team,eh. I am glad I was able to play a small part in the care for rocket.
fly free sweet boy and land softly. you have many before you and they are all special. be on the lookout for cal, mr, chubbs and mr, beasley. tell them how much i miss them

hugs claudia
 
(((((Claudia))))) Such sad news, such a loss, such heartbreak. Fly free, Rocket. You are truly loved. wings_cat
 
(((Claudia))) So sorry to hear that you've lost Rocket and what a difficult decision that is to make. Please accept our deepest sympathy.

wings_cat rb_icon wings_cat​

Lisa & Leo
 
Claudia, I am so very sorry for your loss. I cried, of course, when I read your letter to Rocket. I know your heart is broken, but you did the right thing for your baby who was helpless to help himself. My thoughts are with you.
 
I am so sorry for your loss (((((Claudia))))) :(
You know Rocket will be waiting for you, and he will be happy and healthy until you meet again, and then he will be estatic :)

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This is for your Rocket, to honor a very very good and precious kitty.
We all love you.

Fly Free and Land Softly.
 
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